Casting the Fantastic Four's Ioad Gruffudd as Wilberforce was a smart move. Since he's more or less unknown to American's unless he's standing next to Jessica Alba looking perplexed, he's allowed to get lost in the role, returning to his native tongue and delivering a finely nuanced, incredibly heartfelt performance. Wilberforce was riddled with colitis for most of his life, and Grufford never lets us forget about the British philanthropist's suffering. Even in happier times, the viewer gets the distinct impression that our hero could keel over at any moment (and he frequently does). But there's another level to Grufford's performance, something we don't usually see in such politically oriented films. Wilberforce is committed to his cause, and we can literally read that dedication across every facet of the actor's face. He never lets us forget he's 100% behind the abolition of slavery - no ifs, ands, or buts. Supplemented by superb turns from Rufus Sewell, Toby Jones, Benedict Cumberbatch, Michael Gambon, and Albert Finney, there is never a mislaid moment here. Amazing Grace crackles with the kind of artistic chops that provide untold emotional pleasures. Even in the most villainous 'us vs. them' moments, the cast creates intrigue and insight.
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